SOCIAL MEDIA

Shell and Yanson Group Boost VisMin Travel

Saturday, September 13, 2025

In photo (from left to right): Ronald Ancheta, Shell Lubricants Account Manager; Greg Moratin, National Sales Team Manager; Jacqueline Famorca, VP Shell Lubricants Philippines; Lorelie Osial, President & CEO of Shell Pilipinas Corporation; Doc. Hernan Ormecillo, Chief Operation Officer, YGBC; Edgar Alteros, VP for Finance, YGB; Atty. Roland Jun Pugoy, VP for MIS; Atty. Julius Entila, VP for Admin

 
A strategic partnership brings efficiency and reliability to one of the country’s largest bus networks

Travel across the Visayas and Mindanao just got a boost in safety and efficiency. Shell Pilipinas Corporation has teamed up with the Yanson Group of Bus Companies (YGBC), one of the country’s biggest provincial bus operators, in a partnership that strengthens reliable mobility for thousands of Filipinos who depend on public transport every day.

Powering Regional Mobility with Shell’s Expertise

Signed in Bacolod City last August 2025, the agreement names Shell as YGBC’s exclusive lubricant solutions provider. At the heart of this collaboration is Shell Rimula R4 Plus, a heavy-duty diesel engine oil designed to improve vehicle performance, extend oil life, and maximize fuel efficiency.

With YGBC operating one of the most extensive bus networks in the VisMin region, the partnership ensures smoother and more dependable journeys across provincial routes. For many communities, these buses are more than just transport—they’re lifelines connecting families, businesses, and local economies.

Efficiency and Value Beyond Lubricants

Shell’s Rimula portfolio offers more than just fuel savings. Its advanced formulations can extend oil drain intervals up to 150,000 km, deliver up to 56% better wear protection, and reduce overall maintenance costs—factors that directly improve the total cost of ownership for fleet operators.

Beyond products, Shell will also provide a full suite of technical services to YGBC, reinforcing its commitment to end-to-end business solutions. This holistic approach helps operators like YGBC remain at the forefront of reliable and safe public transportation.

Shared Vision for Safer Journeys

Jacqueline Famorca, General Manager of Shell Lubricants Philippines, underscored the long-term value of the collaboration. Famorca explained that Shell’s mission is to empower transport operators like YGBC to move more people safely and efficiently. She emphasized that by combining premium engine oils with technical expertise, Shell aims to improve transport accessibility and support business owners in optimizing their operations.

This alignment of values highlights how corporate partnerships can directly benefit communities, especially in regions where safe, affordable, and dependable transport remains essential.

Why This Partnership Matters to Filipinos

For everyday commuters in the Visayas and Mindanao, the alliance means fewer breakdowns, safer long-distance rides, and a more sustainable approach to regional transportation. It also showcases how businesses can work hand in hand to create value not just for themselves, but for the communities they serve.

Driving Growth, One Journey at a Time

Shell Pilipinas Corporation and Yanson Group’s partnership is more than a business deal—it’s an investment in the future of travel for Filipinos in VisMin. By combining world-class technology with trusted local operations, they are setting the standard for safe, efficient, and accessible public transport.

As more businesses look toward sustainability and operational efficiency, collaborations like this highlight how innovation and partnerships can move entire regions forward.

If you’re interested in stories of corporate partnerships shaping everyday Filipino lives, check out our features on technology-driven transport solutions, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and business innovations in sustainability.
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Herbalife Empowers Gen Z Entrepreneurs in PH


Herbalife Philippines Inspires Young Entrepreneurs at Next Gen Opportunity Meeting

With more than half of Filipino Gen Z dreaming of starting their own businesses, the future of entrepreneurship in the Philippines looks promising—but passion needs the right guidance and support to grow. That’s why Herbalife Philippines hosted the Next Gen Opportunity Meeting, an immersive summit designed to empower young entrepreneurs through wellness, mentorship, and real-life success stories.

Bringing together nearly 500 aspiring entrepreneurs, young professionals, and Herbalife distributors, the event provided a space where learning, networking, and inspiration blended seamlessly to help participants take bold steps toward building their own ventures.

Blending Wellness, Mentorship, and Community

Unlike traditional business conferences, the summit integrated wellness activities, skill-building sessions, and personal storytelling. This unique approach encouraged participants to reflect on their journeys, gain practical tools, and connect with a supportive community.

Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines, explained the company’s vision for the event, “We want young entrepreneurs to have a space where they can really grow and learn to take action. By combining mentorship, wellness, and a community that supports them, we help them turn their ideas into real opportunities and build the kind of success that lasts.”

He also highlighted Herbalife’s commitment to equipping its independent distributors with expert-led training on nutrition and health, ensuring they can confidently guide customers and thrive in business.

Gen Z Perspectives on Growth and Connection

Gen Z marketing strategist and entrepreneur Patricia Germentil emphasized the importance of authentic connections in building a lasting business, “Likes are just surface level. Real growth comes from building a community that lasts. Your day ones aren’t just followers—they’re the ones who believe in you and support your journey from the start.”

She added that customers resonate more with purpose-driven experiences than with products alone, stressing the value of immersive engagement when building a brand.

Lessons from Personal Journeys

The summit featured Joyce Pring and Juancho Triviño, both television personalities and fitness advocates, in a live podcast-style discussion. They shared practical advice on balancing life and entrepreneurship—Pring underscoring the importance of self-care, and Triviño pointing to discipline and daily consistency as the real drivers of long-term success.

Herbalife triathlete, teacher, and mother Ines Santiago also inspired attendees with her personal story. What started as a 10-minute stress-relief jog grew into long-distance triathlons and a role as a wellness ambassador. She shared, “Adversity pushes you to do better, to live your best life, and to be your best self.”
 
Her journey highlighted how wellness routines can build the resilience and mindset needed to succeed in entrepreneurship.

Building the Next Generation of Leaders

With nearly 500 attendees, the Next Gen Opportunity Meeting wasn’t just about learning—it was about community building. By combining personal development, entrepreneurial training, and wellness, Herbalife Philippines created a space where young entrepreneurs could be inspired, gain skills, and build networks that last.

Herbalife Philippines’ Next Gen Opportunity Meeting proves that the future of business in the country lies in creating holistic, community-driven experiences that empower young Filipinos to pursue their dreams. With the right blend of mentorship, wellness, and resilience, today’s Gen Z entrepreneurs are well on their way to shaping tomorrow’s economy.

For more updates on Herbalife Philippines and its initiatives, follow their official social media channels.
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HUAWEI Leads Global Wearable Market in 2025 with Consecutive No. 1 Rankings


In a world where technology increasingly shapes how we live, work, and stay healthy, HUAWEI has once again proven why it is a force to be reckoned with. The tech giant secured the top spot in the global wearable market for the second consecutive quarter, achieving an impressive 20.2% market share in Q2 2025, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC).

This milestone reflects not just market dominance, but also a growing alignment between consumer needs and HUAWEI’s vision of health-driven, human-centered innovation.

The wearable technology market has become more than just a gadget race—it’s now a critical touchpoint in health monitoring, fitness, and lifestyle integration. For professionals and business leaders, these devices represent a larger trend: the merging of technology with wellness, productivity, and everyday living.

By consistently leading the wearable space, HUAWEI demonstrates the power of continuous innovation, strategic product launches, and consumer trust. For industries observing this growth, it serves as a case study in market leadership built on both design excellence and social relevance.

The Impact: Redefining Smart Lifestyles

From fitness to healthcare, HUAWEI wearables are expanding possibilities for users:

Everyday versatility: The HUAWEI FIT 4 Series delivers sleek, powerful functionality for day-to-day living.

Extended performance: The HUAWEI WATCH 5 Series introduces dual battery modes, catering to both heavy users and casual wearers.

Health innovation: With the TruSense system in the HUAWEI GT 5 Series, users gain access to advanced health monitoring.

Medical-grade precision: The HUAWEI WATCH D2 becomes the first smartwatch in the Philippines to support ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), a feature certified by China’s NMPA and EU regulations.

These advancements not only set new standards for wearables but also highlight the role of technology in empowering healthier, smarter lifestyles worldwide.

The Vision: “Ride the Wind” Launch in Paris

Momentum shows no signs of slowing. On September 19, 2025, in Paris, HUAWEI will host its much-anticipated “Ride the Wind” product launch, where the company is expected to reveal the next generation of wearables designed for smart, health-driven living.

This event signals HUAWEI’s commitment to maintaining global leadership by continually expanding the intersection of style, health, and technology.

For business leaders and entrepreneurs, HUAWEI’s story offers valuable lessons:
  • Market leadership thrives on continuous innovation.
  • Consumer trust grows when technology solves real, everyday needs.
  • Global vision requires local relevance, as seen in health-first features tailored to specific markets like the Philippines.

As wearables become integral to professional and personal life, HUAWEI’s trajectory reinforces how businesses can align profit with purpose—delivering innovation that enhances human well-being.
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Home Credit Reaches 12M Customers in PH

Friday, September 12, 2025


Home Credit Reaches 12 Million Customers, Strengthens Leadership in Consumer Finance

Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) is celebrating a major achievement as it approaches its 12th anniversary: serving 12 million Filipinos with accessible financing solutions. Since its entry into the Philippine market in 2013, the company has grown into a trusted name in consumer finance, helping millions purchase essential goods and services through affordable installment plans, cash loans, and digital solutions. This milestone reaffirms Home Credit’s role as a leading force in shaping inclusive financial access in the country.

From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership

What started as a new player in 2013 has now evolved into one of the most recognized consumer finance brands in the Philippines. Over the years, Home Credit has consistently expanded its offerings to match the needs of Filipinos, from everyday essentials like smartphones and appliances to mobility solutions such as motorcycles and e-bikes.

Reflecting on this growth, David Minol, CEO of Home Credit Philippines, shared that the 12-million mark is more than just a figure—it represents the trust Filipinos continue to place in the company. He noted that demand for inclusive financing remains strong, with more new customers choosing Home Credit year after year.

A Trusted Partner in Financing

As of August 2025, Home Credit has disbursed nearly ₱500 billion in total sales across its credit offerings. This accomplishment underscores its position as a market leader in consumer finance and highlights the increasing demand for accessible lending solutions in the Philippines.

With over 18,000 retail partner stores nationwide, a mobile app available on both Android and iOS, and a #ReadytoHelp team of 9,000 sales associates, Home Credit makes financing easy, fast, and reliable. Whether through in-store applications or digital platforms, customers enjoy a seamless experience from loan application to account management and payments.

Expanding Beyond Gadgets to Mobility and More

While smartphones and appliances remain top financed items, Home Credit is also broadening its reach into mobility financing. With motorcycles being a key mode of transport for many Filipinos, the company is meeting this demand by offering flexible installment options that make ownership more achievable.

Looking Ahead: Financing What Matters

As it enters its 12th year in the Philippines, Home Credit is setting its sights on strengthening digital capabilities, introducing customer-first products, and building more industry partnerships. But at the heart of its mission is a simple promise: to finance what matters most to Filipinos.

Whether it’s a first smartphone for school, a new appliance for the home, or a means of transportation for work, Home Credit continues to measure progress not just in numbers, but in the everyday wins of the people it serves.

Reaching 12 million customers is both a milestone and a reminder of the role Home Credit plays in empowering Filipinos to live better, more connected lives. As the company looks toward the future, one thing remains clear: its commitment to inclusive, accessible, and customer-centered financial solutions.

To explore Home Credit’s financing offers, visit homecredit.ph or download the Home Credit app on Google Play, App Store, or Huawei AppGallery.

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EastWest Empowers Tourism at PTM 2025

Wednesday, September 10, 2025


Tourism is more than just sightseeing—it’s about identity, livelihood, and the stories we share as Filipinos. At this year’s Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) 2025, EastWest Bank showed its commitment to nation-building by stepping in as a major sponsor, helping strengthen tourism through accessible financing, innovative digital tools, and collaborative partnerships.

A Vision Beyond Destinations

During the opening ceremony, EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo highlighted how tourism should be seen not just as an economic driver but as an ecosystem rooted in Filipino pride and hospitality.

“Filipino hospitality is never transactional; it is deeply personal,” Ngo shared. “Tourism is not just an industry for us. It is an ecosystem—one we want to nurture from the ground up through partnerships and collaborations.”

This perspective ties tourism to community building, entrepreneurship, and national identity—making EastWest’s role even more impactful.

A Booth That Travels With You

EastWest made its presence felt at PTM 2025 with an interactive booth designed to make travel more rewarding and accessible. Visitors got the chance to:
  • Apply for EastWest credit cards right on-site
  • Explore Personal Loans, Priority Banking, and Travel Insurance options
  • Avail of exclusive installment promos with select travel merchants

Exclusive Early Access for Cardholders

EastWest cardholders enjoyed a special perk: Early Entrance from 9:00–10:00 AM, giving them first dibs on the best travel deals before the general public. This perk reflects the bank’s “EasyWay to Bank” promise—making travel planning simpler, more personalized, and hassle-free.

Banking That Goes the Extra Mile

Travel is easier when your bank supports your journey every step of the way. EastWest continues to empower travelers with:
  • Travel-ready credit cards and installment options
  • Contactless NFC payments for seamless transactions
  • Airport lounge access and real-time rewards

Through its parent company, Filinvest, EastWest also connects financial empowerment with sustainable tourism investments in hospitality, food and beverage innovations, and eco-conscious infrastructure.

Partnerships that Transform Lives

EastWest’s sponsorship is more than just brand presence—it’s a call to collective action. As Ngo emphasized, “Tourism thrives when government, LGUs, communities, transport, technology, and yes, banks come together. If we nurture it with the right tools, partnerships, and spirit, then tourism will not just grow—it will transform lives.”

By supporting PTM 2025, EastWest is investing in a stronger, more sustainable travel industry—one that uplifts local communities while creating meaningful experiences for travelers.

Storyteller’s Note

As someone who values the power of stories, I see EastWest’s move as more than sponsorship—it’s a commitment to shaping the future of tourism in the Philippines. With banks, businesses, and communities working together, the next chapters of Philippine travel will be filled with empowerment, inclusivity, and pride.

So the next time you plan a trip, think beyond the destination. Ask yourself—how can your journey also empower others?
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Boomi Delivers 347% ROI and $9.8M NPV, Forrester TEI Study Reveals

Tuesday, September 9, 2025


Boomi Delivers 347% ROI and $9.8M NPV, Forrester Study Finds

When it comes to digital transformation, businesses are no longer just looking for speed—they’re looking for measurable impact. And that’s exactly what the latest Forrester Total Economic Impact™ (TEI) study revealed about the Boomi Enterprise Platform.

According to the independent study commissioned by Boomi, organizations using the platform achieved a 347% return on investment (ROI) and $9.8 million net present value (NPV) over three years, with a payback period of less than six months.

The Numbers That Matter

Forrester Consulting’s research, based on in-depth customer interviews across industries like manufacturing, energy, and high-tech, showed just how much value Boomi delivers. Key quantified benefits over three years include:

  • $5.6M in productivity gains through workflow automation and real-time data visibility
  • $3.0M in reduced business risk with improved reliability, uptime, and compliance
  • $1.5M in technology cost savings by consolidating and retiring legacy platforms
  • $1.3M in IT savings from faster development and lower maintenance requirements
  • $1.2M in incremental profit from launching new revenue-generating services faster
Why Boomi Stands Out

Instead of relying on costly, rigid integrations, Boomi simplifies workflows with a unified low-code platform that enables speed, security, and scale.

Interviewed customers highlighted benefits such as:
  • 65% faster integration timelines
  • Reduced errors and downtime
  • Easier management with a single “pane of glass” view
  • Higher IT and employee satisfaction thanks to fewer after-hours issues

One integration architect from the manufacturing sector shared, “We appreciate the ease of use and reliability. In one application, you see your entire code base, deployments, and executions in real time. It’s stable and easy to support.”

Preparing for the AI-Driven Future

As businesses transition into the age of agentic AI, Boomi positions itself as a foundation for managing AI agents, automation, and orchestration at scale. With pre-built connectors, robust APIs, and drag-and-drop workflows, enterprises can integrate systems in days instead of weeks—freeing IT teams to focus on innovation.

Beyond the financial wins, unquantified benefits cited by customers include:
  • Stronger API security and compliance
  • Better employee morale with fewer late-night troubleshooting issues
  • Increased value from existing IT infrastructure
  • A scalable platform for managing future AI strategies

Boomi CEO’s Take

“Boomi is the engine behind some of the world’s most complex, mission-critical automation strategies,” said Steve Lucas, Chairman and CEO of Boomi. “This study validates what our customers already know—when you unify data, systems, and people with Boomi, you unlock new possibilities for efficiency, scale, and AI-driven transformation.”

The Forrester TEI study confirms what many enterprises already experience: Boomi isn’t just about integration—it’s about driving intelligent automation and measurable outcomes at enterprise scale.

For organizations in the Philippines and beyond, the message is clear: if you want faster ROI, reduced complexity, and a future-ready foundation for AI, Boomi is a strong bet.

To explore the full Total Economic Impact™ study, you can download the report directly from Boomi.

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DoubleVerify Report Shows How AI Is Transforming Digital Advertising Workflows

Monday, September 8, 2025


Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword in marketing—it’s reshaping how campaigns are planned, optimized, and delivered. DoubleVerify (DV), a global leader in media quality and ad performance, has released its 2025 Global Insights Report: AI, Automation and the Future of Digital Advertising, revealing how brands worldwide are harnessing AI to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and focus on strategy-driven results.

Marketers Facing Growing Workload Pressures

One of the report’s key findings is the heavy operational burden placed on campaign managers, especially in programmatic advertising. According to DV’s research, marketers spend about 26% of their time—over 10 hours a week—on repetitive manual tasks like adjusting bids, reallocating budgets, and tweaking performance thresholds.

In North America, this inefficiency translates to over $17,000 annually per team member—a significant cost that could instead be directed toward innovation and strategy.

As DV CEO Mark Zagorski explained, campaign managers often feel more like “facilitators” than true strategists. By leveraging AI, teams can flip that dynamic—automating routine tasks and focusing on higher-level decision-making that drives measurable outcomes.

Rising Adoption of AI in Marketing Workflows

The report highlights a clear increase in planned AI adoption across multiple campaign functions in 2025:
  • Campaign activation jumped 32% year-over-year, the most significant rise across workflows.
  • Bidding and mid-flight optimization grew 12% YoY, showing how AI can manage performance complexities better than humans.
  • Summarizing media briefs increased by 11%, while dynamic creative optimization grew by 8%.

Interestingly, 91% of marketers reported that they are already using or plan to use third-party AI tools—beyond their DSP platforms—to support performance and reduce inefficiencies.

Smarter Campaigns, Better Outcomes

Zagorski emphasized that this trend is not just about automation—it’s about smarter strategies that yield stronger business outcomes. DV has introduced DV Authentic AdVantage™, an AI-driven solution built to help advertisers maximize media performance, particularly within walled garden platforms.

“With the media environment becoming more fragmented and fast-paced, AI empowers marketers to reclaim control, streamline operations, and deliver campaigns that truly move the needle,” Zagorski noted.

For Philippine brands navigating a digital-first economy, these insights carry strong relevance. With limited resources often allocated to marketing teams, AI-powered tools can help local businesses save time, cut costs, and focus on creativity—areas where Filipino talent already shines.

From small startups to large corporations, embracing AI in advertising can mean the difference between being stuck in manual processes and achieving scalable growth in a competitive regional market.

DoubleVerify’s report makes one thing clear: AI is no longer optional in digital advertising—it’s essential. Filipino marketers who adopt AI solutions early will not only gain efficiency but also strengthen their competitive edge in the fast-evolving Southeast Asian landscape.

You can read the full 2025 Global Insights Report on AI, automation, and digital advertising here.
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